Monte Vista counts on the brainy bunch

02/19/2013, 10:52pm PST

By bill dickens special to the u-t

Core of players with exceptional GPAs help Monarchs advance in playoffs.

SPRING VALLEY  The early stages of Kayla Kulhanek’s basketball career at Monte Vista lasted just three days during her sophomore year. Now, with a little help from her friends, the Monarchs senior plays a pivotal role for the girls basketball team.

The 6-foot-3 Kulhanek has been a cheerleader since her freshman year. She has also participated in volleyball and track.

She contributed 12 points and eight rebounds off the bench as the Monarchs clipped visiting Castle Park 65-46 in Tuesday’s opening round of the San Diego Section Division III playoffs.

“Kayla was sitting on the fence about whether she wanted to play or not, so we kinda nudged her over to our side,” said senior veteran Felicia Porter, who led the Monarchs with 17 points and 15 rebounds. “She’s definitely been a great teammate.”

Kulhanek is also one of three Monarchs who boast a 5.0 grade-point average. So do Monica Williams and Kayla Harrell. Right on the verge is Heather Bell with a 4.95 GPA.

“These girls are still learning how to play basketball because they spend most of their time studying instead of just playing in the park,” said Monarchs coach Michael Skibbe. “They’ve come a long way, and they’re going to go on and have success in college.”